YOUR CAR
 Cars can, and do, break down at any time and location - often as a result of a minor problem that could be avoided by regularly checking and servicing your vehicle.
Get to know your vehicle and ensure that a garage or qualified vehicle technician regularly services it. Watch out for changes to the 'feel' of the car, or strange noises or smells, and investigate them.
Don’t ignore warning lights or further damage may be caused to the vehicle.
The following checks should be carried out weekly - a useful way to help remember this is the word POWER
|
P |
etrol/diesel
> never allow the fuel level to get too low
> fill up regularly when the fuel gauge reads less than half full to avoid being stranded if your journey takes longer than planned |
|
O |
il
> check the level of the engine oil using the marks on the dipstick
> look for any leaks or oily patches after the car has been standing for a while |
|
W |
ater
> check the fluid levels in the coolant system
> check the level of the screenwash fluid and that the nozzle adjustments are not blocked |
|
E |
lectrics
> check the lights for faults and cracked lenses
> check the battery – top up the fluid level with distilled water and check the terminals for corrosion. |
|
R |
ubber
> tyres are the only contact that your vehicle has with the road so ensure that they are inflated to the correct pressure
> check the tread depth (minimum depth should be 1.6 millimetres) and look for signs of uneven wear. |
A car that is looked after will look after you by not breaking down.
Emergency checklist
In the car:
* have your driving licence with you when you drive (but do not leave it in the car)
* keep a note of your insurer's details and have the policy number to hand (but do not leave these in the car)
* carry a charged mobile phone
* have breakdown recovery contact details to hand
* carry a road atlas
* carry sunglasses
* have a screen cleaner cloth
* have a notebook, pencil and disposable camera (for using at the scene of an accident)
* carry a torch
* have loose change/a phonecard to hand
* carry a personal attack alarm
In the boot, have:
* a reflective/ fluorescent tabard/jacket
* an umbrella
* flat shoes
* spare fuses/bulbs
* a warning triangle
* a fire extinguisher
* puncture aerosol
* a first aid kit
In winter consider taking:
* spare fuel in an approved safety container
* screen de-icer and ice scraper
* travel rug
* warm coat and gloves
* spade
* mat/sacking for extra tyre grip in deep snow
Click here for more information about winter driving |
